Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

The HND Computing (Science) course is an SQA qualification which aims to meet the challenges of employers seeking qualified learners who can demonstrate knowledge and skills in a range of technology areas. The course places particular emphasis on software development, data science, project management and soft skills such as team-working.

According to research from Tech Partnership (a network of employers working with the Scottish Government and Skills Development Scotland to create skills for the UK's digital economy) the number of UK Digital Businesses has increased 30% in the last 5 years.

Their forecast shows the number of people working in the UK as technology specialists between 2014 and 2024 will grow by 28%, significantly outstripping that predicted for workers more generally.

The course is delivered by experienced lecturing staff many of whom have industry experience in IT areas such as software engineering, programming, project management and technical support.

After successfully completing the award, you can apply for a range of entry level posts within the IT industry, you may progress to year 2 of the HND Computer Science course or enter a relevant degree course at a range of universities

This course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 7. For more information on the framework visit: www.scqf.org.uk/the-framework/

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• Two Highers at Grade C or above including one in a relevant* subject AND two National 5 qualifications at Grade C or above; OR
• National Qualification at SCQF level 6 in a relevant subject such as Digital Media Computing, Computing: Technical Support or Software Development; OR
• Other equivalent qualifications or experience

* relevant subjects include Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, English, History, Information Systems, Mathematics or Physics.

Additional selection requirements

You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you can find out more about the course and tell us why you're interested in this subject area or we'll make an offer based on your application form.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

You'll study a range of SQA units mostly at SCQF level 7 including the following:

• Developing Software: Introduction.
• Systems Development Introduction.
• Computer System Fundamentals.
• Big Data.
• Team working in Computing.
• Managing a Web Server.

After the course

Careers

The HND in Computing: Computer Science will prepare you for a career in programming, website development or as a support technician or database administrator.

Continuing Study

Successful students can progress on to:

• HND Computing: Software Development (Year 2).
• HND Computer Science (Year 2).
• Entry to a range of university degree courses

Teaching

How the course is taught

Assessment methods